Twenty-one-year-old Iban woman Jessica Anak Japri had long intended to embrace Islam, and she finally made the decision to recite the Syahadah and begin her journey as a Muslim convert – entirely of her own accord, without persuasion from any party.
When she shared her decision with her family, especially her parents, they accepted it with open hearts and calmness, despite no one else in the family being Muslim.
Jessica is the first in her family to convert.
Before officially embracing Islam, she pledged to do her best in gaining more knowledge about the religion and fulfilling her religious obligations in her effort to become a devoted Muslim.
The conversion ceremony took place yesterday at the residence of Haji Sharing bin Haji Muhd Jaafar in STKRJ Kampong Tanah Jambu, in the presence of the Director of the Islamic Da’wah Centre (PDI) Haji Abdul Rajid bin Haji Mohd Salleh.
The ceremony began with the recitation of Sayyidul Istighfar and Surah Al-Fatihah, followed by Jessica’s conversion ceremony.
After reciting the Syahadah, guided by officers from Da’wah Development (Conversion) Unit, PDI Jessica chose her Muslim name: Nur Fateen Afiqah binti Abdullah Japri.
A Dikir Marhaban was performed to welcome her into Islam, followed by the presentation of a souvenir to Nur Fateen Afiqah. The event concluded with a Doa Selamat.
From January to March 17, 2025, a total of 68 people have embraced Islam in the country, 35 of whom are from the Brunei-Muara District. – Lyna Mohamad
